Prayer (ṣalāh) is the second pillar of Islam and the most important act of worship. It connects the servant directly to Allah, nurturing the soul and instilling discipline and mindfulness.
Allah commands:
وَأَقِمِ ٱلصَّلَوٰةَ لِذِكْرِى
"And establish prayer for My remembrance."
— Surah Taha (20:14)
The Prophet ﷺ said:
"الصَّلَاةُ عِمَادُ ٱلدِّينِ"
"Prayer is the pillar of religion."
— Sahih Muslim (23)
The companions exemplified dedication to prayer. Abdullah ibn Mas'ud (RA) would say, "The first thing a servant will be held accountable for on the Day of Judgment is prayer." Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA) was known to cry if he missed even one prayer.
Prayer disciplines the heart, wards off evil, and strengthens one's relationship with Allah. It is a means of forgiveness and a source of inner peace.
The Prophet ﷺ emphasized punctuality and concentration (khushū') in prayer:
قَدْ أَفْلَحَ ٱلْمُؤْمِنُونَ ٱلَّذِينَ هُمْ فِى صَلَاتِهِمْ خَـٰشِعُونَ
"Successful indeed are the believers—those who humble themselves in their prayers."
— Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:1-2)
Consistent prayer is a sign of true faith and a shield against life's trials.